What are the responsibilities and job description for the Early Childhood Educator position at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest?
About the Role:
The Early Childhood Educator plays a crucial role in shaping the foundational learning experiences of young children in Maricopa County. This position is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that fosters the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children aged 0-5 years. The educator will implement age-appropriate curricula and activities that promote exploration, creativity, and critical thinking. Collaboration with families and community resources is essential to support each child's unique needs and development. Ultimately, the goal is to prepare children for a successful transition into formal education while instilling a lifelong love of learning.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent experience with at least 3 years of early childhood education experience.
- Minimum: High School Diploma with 12 hours of college level Early Childhood Education or 2 years of early childhood classroom experience.
- Experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish or other languages.
- Experience with special education or inclusive practices.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that align with early childhood education standards.
- Assess and monitor children's progress and development, providing feedback to parents and guardians.
- Create a safe and inclusive classroom environment that encourages positive interactions and learning.
- Collaborate with colleagues and community resources to enhance educational opportunities for children.
- Maintain accurate records of children's activities, progress, and any concerns regarding their development.
Skills:
The required skills for this role include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, which are essential for building relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Organizational skills are vital for planning lessons and maintaining records effectively. Creativity is necessary to develop engaging activities that capture children's interest and promote learning. Additionally, knowledge of child development principles helps the educator tailor their approach to meet the diverse needs of each child. Preferred skills, such as bilingual communication, enhance the educator's ability to connect with a broader range of families and support children's learning in a culturally responsive manner.
